The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued a warning for beachgoers in the Los Angeles County area, advising against water activities at several beaches due to elevated bacterial levels. The health advisory specifically targets ocean water use and recommends avoiding swimming, surfing, and playing in the affected areas.
Beaches affected include popular spots such as Venice Beach near the Windward storm drain, where the advisory extends for 100 yards up and down the coast. Furthermore, swimmers should steer clear from the water at Big Rock Beach in Malibu, Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, and Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey. The advisory spans the entire swim area at these last two locations, indicating a significant concern for public health.
Additional areas where the warnings have been applied are around Santa Monica Pier, the Ashland Ave. storm drain in Santa Monica, and the Herondo Street storm drain in Hermosa Beach. The Strand Street extension at Santa Monica Beach is also on the list, with advisories in effect for 100 yards surrounding Lifeguard Tower #24, as stated in a bulletin issued by the health department.
These warnings come into place as result of the bacterial levels in the water exceeding acceptable health standards, as recorded during the last testing period. Beach visitors looking for updated information on the conditions, or those planning future outings to the coast, can access a 24-hour beach closure hotline at 1-800-525-5662, provided by the county. For more comprehensive details and to view an interactive map of the impacted locations, the public can also visit the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health's beach website.
